B R Cohn Winery
Sept 2009
B.R. Cohn Winery
Located right on highway 12 in the Sonoma Valley (between the city of Sonoma and Santa Rosa) B.R. Cohn epitomizes the old adage about “wine, women, and song…” It was founded in 1984 by Bruce Cohn, long time manager of the Doobie Brothers and a driving force in the west coast music industry. They focus on ultra premium Cabernet Sauvignon but also produce Merlot, Pinot Noir, Petite Syrah, Zinfandel, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Port.
Their tasting room is located in an expanded early American style house; which had originally been a Wells Fargo stagecoach stop. It’s open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. (Tours are available by appointment only!) The interior is dominated by a magnificent “L” shaped mahogany bar and presided over by a group of attractive, friendly wine devotees. Outside, there’s a patio and picnic area with stunning views of the Olive Hill Estate Vineyard (from which they produce our personal favorite of their “cabs). They also make and sell world-class olive oils and flavored vinegars at the winery.
Scattered around the grounds are wonderfully eclectic pieces of sculpture created by Patrick Amoit and inspired by Bruce’s vintage car collection. Behind the tasting room there’s a four thousand seat amphitheater built for musical events; the proceeds of which generally benefit children’s charities and youth organizations. Two of the most popular are the “Charity Car Classic” held in July and the “Fall Music Festival” which takes place in early October. Both have featured such standout music performers as the Doobie Brothers (themselves), Huey Lewis and the News, Willie Nelson, Three Dog Nite, Los Lobos and Taj Mahal (just 2 name a few) and coming in early October, Journey and the Doobies entertain over the weekend in the 23rd annual BR Cohn Charity Event. Yea to Bruce….
If you attend one of their special events, you’ll be blown away by the highly charged yet still laid back party atmosphere. But even if you can’t attend one of the “fests”, be sure to stop by just to try the wines. You won’t be disappointed with them either!
B.R. Cohn Winery
15000 Sonoma Hwy
Glen Ellen, Ca
800-330-4064 ext. 124
brcohn.com
